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Red Bull Racing official Helmut Marko does not want to be 'blackmailed' by manufacturers when it comes time to pick a new engine supplier after 2020. Photo by LAT PHOTOGRAPHIC

Red Bull demands major 2021 F1 engine changes -- or else

Team official wants more options for next era of powerplants

May 17, 2017

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Red Bull Racing could quit Formula 1 if the next set of engine regulations is not significantly better. That's the warning shot fired by the energy drink-owned team's top Austrian official, Helmut Marko.

Talks have already begun about how to tweak the controversial engine rules for beyond 2020, and Red Bull has some conditions.

Marko told Spanish media outlet El Confidencial: "The idea is very simple. We want an engine that is 1,000 hp, with a single standard KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) and battery, and development does not cost more than $15 million to $20 million.

"They should have sound and allow the driver to make the difference. And independent companies like Ilmor and Cosworth should be able to enter so that we or McLaren can use them if we want."

And if those conditions cannot be met, Marko hinted that Red Bull might quit F1.